When opinions and choices regarding vaccine mandates influence employee satisfaction and retention, there are 3 key elements in creating a safe work environment while navigating through the terrain of vaccine mandates and employee well-being. Acknowledging that the mandates will vary with each state and organization. The elements of curiosity, confidentiality, and consent are universal in any individual's sense of safety and belonging, with the quality and the way they live, act, and function. For those in positions of decision-making, supervision, and influence, it is imperative to understand these elements so that the time and attention to training invested in an individual is not lost.
1. Curiosity
Be willing to listen and explore what is truly at the heart of one's choice. With curiosity, you might find a deeply held value that needs honoring or respecting in the request or choice in a conversation, or perhaps even a change in ability. For instance, an employee may ask for a seemingly minor accommodation at work, such as requesting an additional break in his/her shift. There are a few ways this could go: the employers/supervisors agree and accommodate, respond with alternative solutions, or be genuinely curious about why such a request was made. In the latter, they may find that the employee has gone through a series of medical challenges and has impacted his/her energy, endurance, or ability to produce the same quality of work. With authentic curiosity, a collaborative solution of mutual understanding can be made. Allow them to truly be heard and be a part of the decision-making process.
2. Confidentiality
Be mindful that what someone shares with you may not be something they want for others to know. In a society that is emotionally charged and filled with subconscious bias, there is a legitimate fear of discrimination and changes in opportunities when one discloses something personal but relevant to work. This may cause a dilemma between uninterrupted production and accommodating the employee. For example, employees may be considered for fewer opportunities than they were before due to medical reasons, loss, grief, or any other impactful events. Giving their 100% at work may look different than before, but that does not mean they are not doing their best. Safety in confidentiality is to know when one discloses difficult information, it should be kept between the parties it was shared with. There was trust built in the relationship for it to come out; keep it safe.
3. Consent
Consent is receiving permission to share. Confidentiality is rooted in respecting another's right to tell the story, situation, or experience, not for someone else to spread it. However, in some cases, it may be important that the leadership team may need to be aware of the co-created solution. In such, ask for permission to do so. This is a way to inform the person that their story matters.
Grow your Workplace Safety
Staffing agencies can help with each of these practices by understanding the needs and values of your organization. Contact us to learn how our team of recruiting professionals can support your organization in creating a sense of safety and belonging.
